How to land a job in broadcasting

Landing broadcast jobs can be tricky, particularly as there is so much competition in the market and a multitude of like-minded individuals desperate to make their way to the top.

However according to news director, Jeff Houston, there are a few key points jobseekers can take on board to maximise their chances of working in front of the camera.

Firstly, Houston gave some top tips on how to make the perfect sample reel of work.

“I want to be interested within the first 15 seconds of a tape,” he said. “If there is nothing I like within the first 15 seconds, I will take the DVD and trash it.”

“Basically, I just don’t want to see you standing there. Be interactive and move around,” he added on Advancing the Story.

He went on to say that while portfolios of headshots, and websites showcasing previous experience are useful, recruiters in television may be interested in what an applicant can do for them specifically – not just what they’ve done in the past.

“It’s all about you in reality, I want to know what you can do for me,” Houston confirmed.

Fellow broadcasting expert, Joe Mahoney, echoed Houston’s opinions; telling The Guardian: “You don’t have much time to impress someone so keep it snappy.”

“Companies will not want to watch your student version of Lord of the Rings. A short clip is more than enough to give potential employers an idea of your skills.”